MARKET traders set out their stalls for the first time on a Sunday at Accrington covered market in a bid to increase weekend business in the town.

Traders took their places at 7.30am yesterday after Hyndburn Council chiefs gave permission for them to compete with Sunday markets in neighbouring Blackburn, Whalley and Clitheroe. And more than a thousand people turned out despite bad weather.

And market supervisor David Bullock said almost all the stalls were already booked up for next week.

He said: "It's been brilliant.

" Some traders have been amazed at the amount of business they have been doing. And we may even open longer hours if there's enough demand."

The market will be open every Sunday from 7am to 2pm until Easter, when the situation will be reviewed.

Town centre bosses are also considering the impact of a proposed new shopping development.

That would mean demolishing the old market and building a new covered shopping area.

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